To send money to an inmate, deposit funds into their trust or commissary account through the facility’s approved provider. Most prisons and jails use an online vendor such as JPay, Securus, or GTL/ViaPath, but you can also mail a money order or use a lobby kiosk. Always confirm the correct provider, the inmate’s ID number, and any limits on the official DOC, BOP, or county jail website before sending money.
What “Sending Money” Actually Means
You aren’t handing over cash; you’re depositing funds into the inmate’s trust account (also called commissary or books). They use that balance to buy approved items like snacks, hygiene products, stamps, and sometimes phone or email credits. You’ll need their unique inmate ID number to deposit — names alone aren’t enough.
The Main Ways to Send Money
Online and app deposits
The fastest, most common option. Major providers include JPay, Securus, GTL/ViaPath, and Access Corrections/Keefe. Create a free account with the correct provider, search the facility and state, enter the inmate’s name and ID, and pay by debit or credit card. Funds often post within minutes to a few hours. Confirm which provider your facility actually uses — using the wrong vendor is a common mistake.
Phone deposits
Most providers also take deposits by phone via an automated line or agent, usually for a service fee.
Lobby kiosks
Many facilities have a deposit kiosk in the lobby that accepts cash, debit, or credit. Handy if you’re already visiting — see our first time visiting an inmate guide.
Mailing a money order
Still accepted at many facilities. Buy a money order (not cash or personal checks), write the inmate’s full committed name and ID clearly, and mail it to the specific deposit address — often different from the address for letters. The wrong address causes delays or returns.
Federal, State, and County Differences
Federal (BOP): funds go through the BOP’s approved provider or a central processing location using the register number; check bop.gov. State prisons: each DOC chooses its own vendor and limits. County jails: often use kiosks, a local vendor, or money orders; check the sheriff’s site.
Fees, Limits, and Timing
Fees, minimums/maximums, and posting times vary by facility and provider, so confirm current figures officially before sending. Tips: larger online deposits sometimes carry a lower percentage fee; funds may be subject to holds or court-ordered deductions; keep your confirmation until it posts.
Staying Safe From Scams
Only send through approved channels. Be wary of anyone asking you to pay by gift card, wire, or to a personal account — facilities never collect commissary funds that way. When in doubt, call the facility using the number on the official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the inmate’s ID number?
Use an inmate locator — the BOP locator, a state DOC locator, or the county jail roster. See our inmate locator guide.
How long does it take to reach the inmate?
Online and kiosk deposits often post within minutes to hours; mailed money orders can take days to weeks.
Can I send cash directly?
No. Use the approved online provider, a kiosk, or a money order.
Why can’t the inmate spend all the money?
Trust accounts can be subject to holds for restitution, fines, or court orders, so part may be deducted first.
For more, see how to write a letter to an inmate and how to visit an inmate. Always confirm current rules on the official site before sending.
